Prospera Financial Services Inc lessened its stake in shares of Becton, Dickinson and Company ( NYSE:BDX – Free Report ) by 2.9% in the third quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The firm owned 3,332 shares of the medical instruments supplier’s stock after selling 99 shares during the quarter. Prospera Financial Services Inc’s holdings in Becton, Dickinson and Company were worth $804,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Several other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in BDX. Livelsberger Financial Advisory purchased a new stake in shares of Becton, Dickinson and Company during the third quarter worth about $26,000. Ashton Thomas Securities LLC acquired a new stake in Becton, Dickinson and Company during the third quarter worth approximately $33,000. Tompkins Financial Corp grew its stake in Becton, Dickinson and Company by 44.2% in the 3rd quarter. Tompkins Financial Corp now owns 150 shares of the medical instruments supplier’s stock worth $36,000 after acquiring an additional 46 shares during the period. Sound Income Strategies LLC raised its holdings in Becton, Dickinson and Company by 35.8% in the 3rd quarter. Sound Income Strategies LLC now owns 167 shares of the medical instruments supplier’s stock valued at $40,000 after acquiring an additional 44 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Opal Wealth Advisors LLC purchased a new position in shares of Becton, Dickinson and Company during the 2nd quarter worth $45,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 86.97% of the company’s stock. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several equities analysts recently commented on the company. Stifel Nicolaus upped their target price on Becton, Dickinson and Company from $270.00 to $280.00 and gave the company a “buy” rating in a research note on Friday, July 26th. Evercore ISI upped their price objective on shares of Becton, Dickinson and Company from $286.00 to $290.00 and gave the company an “outperform” rating in a research note on Tuesday, October 1st. Raymond James decreased their target price on shares of Becton, Dickinson and Company from $275.00 to $270.00 and set an “outperform” rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, August 2nd. StockNews.com raised shares of Becton, Dickinson and Company from a “hold” rating to a “buy” rating in a research report on Thursday, August 8th. Finally, Citigroup upgraded shares of Becton, Dickinson and Company from a “neutral” rating to a “buy” rating and lifted their price target for the company from $255.00 to $275.00 in a report on Tuesday, October 1st. Eight analysts have rated the stock with a buy rating, According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of “Buy” and a consensus price target of $283.00. Becton, Dickinson and Company Trading Down 0.6 % Shares of BDX stock opened at $224.00 on Friday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.74, a current ratio of 1.17 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.69. Becton, Dickinson and Company has a fifty-two week low of $218.75 and a fifty-two week high of $249.89. The firm’s 50 day moving average price is $235.15 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $234.56. The stock has a market cap of $64.74 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 37.71, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.66 and a beta of 0.43. Becton, Dickinson and Company ( NYSE:BDX – Get Free Report ) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, November 7th. The medical instruments supplier reported $3.81 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $3.77 by $0.04. Becton, Dickinson and Company had a net margin of 8.55% and a return on equity of 14.89%. The business had revenue of $5.44 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $5.38 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $3.42 EPS. The business’s quarterly revenue was up 6.9% on a year-over-year basis. On average, analysts anticipate that Becton, Dickinson and Company will post 14.43 EPS for the current year. Becton, Dickinson and Company Increases Dividend The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, December 31st. Stockholders of record on Monday, December 9th will be given a $1.04 dividend. This is an increase from Becton, Dickinson and Company’s previous quarterly dividend of $0.95. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, December 9th. This represents a $4.16 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.86%. Becton, Dickinson and Company’s dividend payout ratio is presently 63.97%. Becton, Dickinson and Company Profile ( Free Report ) Becton, Dickinson and Company develops, manufactures, and sells medical supplies, devices, laboratory equipment, and diagnostic products for healthcare institutions, physicians, life science researchers, clinical laboratories, pharmaceutical industry, and the general public worldwide. The company operates in three segments: BD Medical, BD Life Sciences, and BD Interventional. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BDX? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Becton, Dickinson and Company ( NYSE:BDX – Free Report ). Receive News & Ratings for Becton Dickinson and Company Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Becton Dickinson and Company and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .

MALIBU, Calif., Dec. 13, 2024 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — As the Franklin Fire nears containment, having scorched over 4,000 acres and displaced thousands of residents, the Satellite Phone Store ( satellitephonestore.com ) is stepping up to provide critical communication solutions to assist recovery efforts and prepare communities for future emergencies. The Franklin Fire, which destroyed six homes and damaged others, left many areas without reliable communication infrastructure. Satellite communication devices such as sat phones & starlink terminals , which function independently of damaged cell networks, are proving essential for both emergency responders and returning residents. IN RESPONSE TO THE CRISIS, THE SATELLITE PHONE STORE IS OFFERING: Emergency rentals starting at $35.99 per week. Same-day delivery options for urgent needs. Free consultations to help families and organizations find the right tools. 24/7 customer support to ensure seamless setup and troubleshooting. “A WAKE-UP CALL FOR PREPAREDNESS” “Disasters like the Franklin Fire remind us how essential reliable communication is during and after an emergency,” said Tina Blanco, CEO of Satellite Phone Store. “We’re here to help Malibu recover, but we also want to encourage everyone to think ahead. It’s never too late to prepare for the unexpected, and having the right tools can make all the difference.” SATELLITE COMMUNICATION: A LIFELINE DURING AND AFTER A CRISIS As displaced residents begin returning home, satellite communication tools are helping: First responders coordinate firefighting operations in remote, rugged terrain. Residents stay in touch with loved ones, access updates, and communicate with insurance providers. Relief volunteers organize recovery efforts efficiently. With the wildfire starting to be under control, attention now shifts to the importance of emergency preparedness. Wildfires, earthquakes, and other natural disasters can happen at any time, and satellite communication ensures connectivity when traditional networks fail. WHY PREPAREDNESS MATTERS The Satellite Phone Store emphasizes the importance of readiness for future emergencies: 100% Connectivity: Satellite devices work independently of damaged or overloaded cell towers. Emergency Updates: Stay informed about evacuation routes and critical developments. Peace of Mind: Reliable communication ensures you’re never out of touch when it matters most. PREPARE TODAY FOR TOMORROW’S EMERGENCIES As Malibu rebuilds, the Satellite Phone Store urges individuals and communities to take action now to prepare for what’s next. Reliable communication tools aren’t just for disasters—they’re a safeguard for the unexpected challenges of the future. About Satellite Phone Store: The Satellite Phone Store, a division of Connecta Satellite Solutions LLC , is a global leader in satellite communication technology. Specializing in satellite phones, portable internet hotspots, GPS trackers, and emergency equipment, the company equips families, businesses, and governments with tools to stay connected in extreme conditions. For more information, visit https://SatellitePhoneStore.com/ or call 1-877-324-6913. MEDIA CONTACT: Lacey Moore Website: SatellitePhoneStore.com Email: Care@SatellitePhoneStore.com Phone: 1-877-324-6913 Locations: California, Florida, Alaska NEWS SOURCE: Satellite Phone Store Keywords: Telecom and VoIP, Emergency, Telecom, Technology, Internet, Natural Disasters, malibu wildfires, portable internet, satellite internet, sat phones, franklin fires, emergency response, california, MALIBU, Calif. This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Satellite Phone Store) who is solely responsibile for its accuracy, by Send2Press® Newswire . Information is believed accurate but not guaranteed. Story ID: S2P122844 APDF15TBLLI To view the original version, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/satellite-phone-store-steps-in-to-support-malibu-wildfire-recovery-with-lifesaving-communication-tools/ © 2024 Send2Press® Newswire, a press release distribution service, Calif., USA. Disclaimer: This press release content was not created by nor issued by the Associated Press (AP). Content below is unrelated to this news story.

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25 Canadian brands worth supporting in 2025 (and beyond)JAMAICA, N.Y. , Dec. 13, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The New Terminal One at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) today announced that Turkish Airlines will begin operations at the new terminal when it opens in 2026. Turkish Airlines will also unveil a brand new, state-of-the-art lounge for its premium customers, launching the next phase of the award-winning airline's growth at its top U.S. gateway. The New Terminal One, set to be the largest international terminal in the United States , will offer best-in-class amenities and innovative technology for a transformational and efficient travel experience. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.

PISCATAWAY, N.J. (AP) — Luke Altmyer found Pat Bryant for a catch-and-run, 40-yard touchdown pass with 4 seconds left, sending No. 24 Illinois to a wild 38-31 victory over Rutgers on Saturday. Illinois (8-3, 5-3 Big Ten) was down 31-30 when it sent long kicker Ethan Moczulski out for a desperation 58-yard field goal with 14 seconds to go. Rutgers coach Greg Schiano then called for a timeout right before Moczulski’s attempt was wide left and about 15 yards short. After the missed field goal was waved off by the timeout, Illinois coach Bret Bielema sent his offense back on the field. Altmyer hit Bryant on an in cut on the left side at the 22, and he continued across the field and scored untouched in a game that featured three lead changes in the final 3:07. Rutgers (6-5, 3-5) gave up a safety on the final kickoff return, throwing a ball out of bounds in the end zone as players passed it around hoping for a miracle touchdown. Altmyer was 12-of-26 passing for 249 yards and two touchdowns. Bryant finished with seven receptions for 197 yards. Altmeyer put Illinois in front with a 30-yard TD run with 3:07 to go. He passed to Josh McCray on the 2-point conversion, making it 30-24. Rutgers responded with a 10-play, 65-yard drive. Athan Kaliakmanis had a 15-yard run on fourth down. He passed to running back Kyle Manangai for a 13-yard TD with 1:08 remaining. Illinois then drove 75 yards in eight plays for the unexpected win. Kaliakmanis was 18 for 36 for 174 yards and two touchdowns. He also had 13 carries for 84 yards and two TDs. Monangai had a career-high 28 carries for 122 yards. Kaliakmanis found Ian Strong for a 2-yard touchdown in the final seconds of the first half, and he scored on a 1-yard run to lift Rutgers to a 24-15 lead early in the fourth quarter. Illinois responded with Aidan Laughery’s 8-yard TD run, setting up the roller-coaster finish. The start of the second half was delayed because of a scrum between the teams. There were no punches thrown and the officials called penalties on both schools. Monangai become the third player in Rutgers history to rush for 3,000 yards when he picked up 4 on a third-and-1 carry early in the second quarter. The defending conference rushing champion joins Ray Rice and Terrell Willis in hitting the mark. Illinois: The great finish keeps the Illini in line for its first nine-win season since 2007 and a prestigious bowl game this season. Rutgers: The Scarlet Knights were seconds away from their first in-conference three-game win streak since joining the Big Ten in 2014. Illinois: At Northwestern next Saturday. Rutgers: At Michigan State next Saturday. AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/college-football and https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll

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Global Times: China's SEPCOIII transforms Uzbekistan's energy landscape with Zarafshan wind power project, boosting green development. Beijing, China, Dec. 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In the rugged mountains of Uzbekistan's Zarafshan region, harsh winters once meant enduring blackouts and the daily struggle of life without reliable electricity. For Ermakhanov Alisher, these memories of coldness and darkness are now giving way to warmth and brightness, thanks to the construction of a wind power project by a Chinese company that has not only helped transform the energy structure to provide more reliable electricity to the locals, but has also created new job opportunities for residents. "I am so proud. After the construction of this wind power project, the prime minister of our country has inspected it three times. This is the largest commissioned wind power project in Uzbekistan," Alisher, a local who now works at the project, told the Global Times. The Zarafshan wind power project, constructed by the SEPCOIII Electric Power Construction Corporation, is located in Zarafshan, approximately 230 kilometers from Navoiy - one of the country's industrial centers. The total installed capacity of the project is 521.7 MW. While rich in coal, oil, and gas reserves, Uzbekistan still faced power shortage, partly due to its outdated power generation facilities, according to a report by the Asian Development Bank (ADB). To meet the rising energy demand, promote sustainable development, and address climate change impacts, Uzbekistan has ramped up efforts in recent years to diversify its energy structure with a key focus on renewable energy. The Zarafshan project is one such example of the growing cooperation between China and Uzbekistan in the country's green energy transformation campaign. As a BRI partner country, Uzbekistan is prioritizing "green" cooperation within the framework of the BRI. In October 2023, China and Uzbekistan signed an agreement on renewable energy cooperation, a pivotal step toward bolstering energy security and achieving carbon neutrality in Uzbekistan, the Xinhua News Agency reported. Many firsts During its execution, Zarafshan wind power project has achieved several milestones in the development of wind power in Uzbekistan: It is the first megawatt-level wind power project to be implemented, the first wind turbine to be installed, and the first wind turbine to be connected to the grid for power generation, according to the employee at the SEPCOIII Electric Power Construction Corporation who works at the project site. Currently, 500 MW have been added to the power grid, making it the largest single wind power project in Central Asia that has been commissioned. "Once fully completed, the project will provide sufficient green electricity for 500,000 households and will save 1.1 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually, contributing positively to Uzbekistan's energy transition and sustainable economic development goals," the employee told the Global Times. During the ceremony to celebrate for Uzbekistan's first WTG (wind turbine generator) lifting, Abdullajon Otaboev, an official at Uzbekistan's Ministry of Energy, hailed the project, stressing in his speech that "Zarafshan wind power project represents the highest international quality standards." The project will help reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change and contribute to the sustainable development of Uzbekistan's economy and environment, the official said. According to the ADB report, Uzbekistan's power generation facilities which mainly use fossil fuels operate beyond their expected lifespan. Therefore, they cause power outages in cities and more frequently in rural areas where "blackouts can last from six hours a day to a few weeks in some villages. Households, business activities, and public services are all severely affected." Meanwhile, the country's rapid economic growth further drives up the demand for power. "For Uzbekistan, this [Zarafshan] wind farm is key to its future energy needs: Fulfilling rising demand, delivering energy equity for the underserved, meeting climate goals, and achieving climate resilience," said Seung Duck Kim, senior energy specialist and project officer at the ADB. In Uzbekistan, it is no longer an unusual scene to see the presence of Chinese companies and Chinese technologies in the wind power industry. In July, China Southern Power Grid Co, Ltd (CSG) completed the partial equity acquisition of the Bash and Dzhankeldy wind farms in Uzbekistan, along with their 500-kilovolt transmission grid. The largest wind power project in Central Asia is expected to begin operations in 2025, according to Xinhua. In March 2023, the Bash and Dzhankeldy wind power project contracted by China Energy Engineering Corporation Limited in Uzbekistan broke ground. The project is estimated to provide more than 3.5 billion kilowatt-hours of power annually, representing a reduction of 1.6 million metric tons of carbon dioxide annually, according to the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission of the State Council. Stable income, expertise training Kamolova Rano, a mother of three children, works diligently as a kitchen assistant in the dining hall used for employees at the Zarafshan wind power project. For years, her family relied solely on her husband, who took on various odd jobs to make ends meet. Their financial situation was often precarious, leaving them in search of better opportunities. On hearing the news that a Chinese company was coming to their area to construct a wind farm, Rano told the Global Times that she seized the chance and applied for the kitchen assistant position. Additionally, her husband secured a stable job as a concrete worker on the project site. "The wages the company gives us are quite good. We are very satisfied about our current life," she said. For many employees, this job does not only mean a stable income, but a platform to hone their expertise. Guzal joined the SEPCOIII in 2021, a pivotal moment in her career. At the time, the company was engaged in the construction of the Navoi solar power station, which is the first solar power station in Uzbekistan. "This experience was not only my first exposure to a Chinese company, but also a significant learning opportunity, as my colleagues generously shared their knowledge and expertise with me. Their dedication and responsible approach to work left a lasting impression on me," she recalled. After the Navoi solar power project, she joined the Zarafshan wind power project. Over the last few years at the company, she said she has gained extensive knowledge about wind power plants, and is "proud" to be involved in the many firsts. "This achievement fills me with immense pride and joy. Looking ahead, I aspire to leverage the knowledge I have acquired to contribute even more to our nation's renewable energy initiatives, helping to ensure a future where our skies are bluer and our waters are clearer," she said. Green future While addressing the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis (the lower house of parliament) in November, Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev announced that the country has designated 2025 as the Year of Environmental Protection and Green Economy to address growing environmental challenges, according to Xinhua. In addition to harnessing the wind resources, the cooperation to transform Uzbekistan's abundant solar resources is also flourishing. In the deserts of the Kashkadarya and Bukhara regions of Uzbekistan, the 1-GW photovoltaic project shined as the first large-scale renewable energy project invested and constructed by Chinese enterprises in Central Asia after the first China-Central Asia Summit held in May 2023. It is also the largest photovoltaic project invested and constructed by Chinese enterprises in Central Asia under the framework of the BRI, Xinhua reported in July. As the world is facing growing pressure from climate change, the green campaign is not confined to Uzbekistan's borders; it extends to the broader Central Asian region. In November, Azerbaijan hosted the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29). During this pivotal event, nearly 200 parties engaged in multilateral negotiations, resulting in a comprehensive package of climate agreements. The conference also underscored the green transition goals of Central Asia, emphasizing the region's commitment to sustainable development. As Central Asian countries increasingly collaborate with China, China's solutions in renewable energy production, energy efficiency, and sustainable practices can provide valuable insights for Central Asian nations as they strive to achieve their environmental objectives. "The application of modern technology is critical to ensuring sustainable development in today's world. China, in particular, has a significant position," Ambassador of Azerbaijan to China Bunyad Huseynov told the Global Times in a previous interview. "China has made great strides in improving the population's well-being. It is also one of the countries to have invested the most in green development and renewable energy. I would like to point out that China sets an example for the world by sharing with other nations the expertise and technology it has acquired," he stressed. This article first appeared in the Global Times https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202412/1325813.shtml For more information, please contact: Company: Global Times Contact Person: Anna Li Email: [email protected] Website: https://www.globaltimes.cn City: Beijing The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of KISS PR or its partners. This content is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. KISS PR makes no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, correctness, suitability, or validity of any information in this article and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. All information is provided on an as-is basis.Bruce Cassidy became the eighth active coach in the NHL to hit the 400-win mark on Thursday when his Pacific Division-leading Vegas Golden Knights held on for a 3-2 victory at Ottawa on Thursday. But the Ottawa native had little time to celebrate. The Golden Knights jumped on a train for Montreal shortly after the contest and will continue a season-long five-game road trip against the resurgent Canadiens on Saturday night. "It feels great," Cassidy said of hitting the 400-win milestone. "You never know where your numbers are going to end up but I'm going to tell you that in this business I'm just worried about No. 401 right now." The win over the Senators was the second game of a back-to-back that began with the team's first shutout loss since early January, 3-0, at Toronto on Wednesday. It was just the fourth road victory in 10 games (4-4-2) for Vegas, which improved 6-0-1 all-time at the Canadian Tire Centre. Ilya Samsonov made 38 saves, including 16 in the final period when the Senators outshot the Golden Knights, 18-5, and Pavel Dorofeyev scored his team-leading 10th goal midway through the third period for what proved to be the game-winner as Vegas snapped a two-game losing streak. "We managed to get it to the finish line," Cassidy said. "That's a good win for the team even though it got a little hectic there but you've got to find ways to win. There are no easy wins in this league, so good on the guys." Now the Golden Knights play a Montreal team that has won two straight and three of its last four games and is coming off an impressive 3-0 blanking of Connor McDavid and the Edmonton Oilers on Monday. Sam Montembeault made 30 saves for his second shutout of the season, Jake Evans had a goal and an assist and Brendan Gallagher and Kaiden Guhle also scored to lead the Canadiens. "I'm just really proud of the way we played tonight," Montembeault said after posting his third career shutout. "The last few games we took a really good step in the right direction defensively and now we've just got to be more consistent with it." Montembeault is 3-1-0 with a 0.93 goals-against average and .966 save percentage and a shutout in his last four games. Montreal outscored Columbus and Edmonton, 8-1, in the two wins but still has allowed an Atlantic Division-high 71 goals this season and is minus-17 in goal differential. "The win was great," Canadiens coach Martin St. Louis said. "Obviously the result. But to me it's how we won that galvanized the group. ... To me, it's how we did it, not so much the result. I feel, right now, we're in a good place to reinforce the stuff that's working." It will be the third game in four nights for the Golden Knights while Montreal is enjoying a rare four-day break. Montreal held team practices on three of those days. "We should come out with some good energy (Saturday)," St. Louis said. "I think our start is (going to be) very, very important." --Field Level Media

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AROUND 13,000 people descended on London last week in protest at the UK Government’s inheritance tax plans. There has been widespread condemnation in the agricultural industry to Chancellor, Rachel Reeves' announcement in the budget that farms worth more than £1 million will face an inheritance tax rate of 20 per cent. Both NFU Cymru and FUW have said the plan would have ‘disastrous consequences’ on family farms. Farmers from across Wales headed east to make their voices heard and to protest the plans. There was also a protest staged in Llandudno during the Labour conference, where Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he defended the budget for taking "tough decisions that were necessary to stabilise our economy". Mr Starmer did not speak with the protestors in north Wales, with prominent campaigner, Gareth Wyn-Jones accusing the PM of ‘running out the back door like a flipping rat’. NFU Cymru President Aled Jones said: “For decades APR and BPR have underpinned viable working farming businesses, of all shapes and sizes. NFU Cymru’s fear is that this week’s changes, if they go ahead as planned, will cause lasting damage to Welsh farming, leading to the break-up of family farms – farms that contribute to the nation’s food security, our rural communities, the economy and of course the Welsh language.” This was the second mass protest staged by Welsh farmers this year following mass gatherings in Aberystwyth, Carmarthen and Welshpool earlier this year over the Welsh Government’s Sustainable Farming Scheme. Local politicians have given their support to farmers. Ben Lake MP for Ceredigion Preseli said: “Labour Governments at both ends of the M4 are continuing to overlook the realities of family farming and its vital role in sustaining our rural communities. “The implications of the UK Government’s Budget pose a serious threat to the future of the family farm model, and if policymakers are truly committed to addressing food security, they must urgently rethink these harmful measures.” Dwyfor Meirionnydd MP Liz Saville Roberts echoed these sentiments and accused Labour of overlooking the struggles of Welsh farmers at the protest. Mrs Saville Roberts said: “Welsh farmers are fed up. Labour in both Westminster and Cardiff Bay continue to overlook the struggles of family farms, treating them as an afterthought. “The recent fiasco over Agricultural Property Relief (APR) is a perfect example – no consultation, no understanding, just decisions made with a broad brush from a distance. “It isn’t just APR. Labour’s plan to direct Welsh agricultural funding through the Barnett formula rather than through a ring-fenced addition could slash farm funding by 40 per cent. “These policies reflect a stereotype in Labour’s imagination of farmers as mega-wealthy landowners who buy up land to avoid paying inheritance tax. When it comes to Wales, that isn’t just wrong – it’s insulting. “Most upland farmers in Wales barely scrape by on £18,600 a year, far below the average salary, while working far beyond the typical 40-hour week. “The chancellor’s error was not to increase taxes on wealthy landowners who use farmland to dodge taxes – most people wouldn’t have a problem with that. “Her mistake was failing to distinguish between these individuals and real, hardworking family farms. This failure has resulted in the fiasco where government departments contradict each other on how many farms will be affected. “Farmers deserve governments that see Welsh farmers for what they are: hardworking, underappreciated, and essential to our rural communities. “Plaid Cymru will always appreciate the importance of family farms for our rural economy, for food security, and for Wales’ future.” NFU’s UK President Tom Bradwshaw, said: “You don’t need me to tell you farmers and growers have put up with a hell of a lot, but it takes something extraordinary to get us to react like this and this betrayal on APR and BPR is extraordinary, and it affects farmers from every corner of Britain, many of whom are joining us today. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen the industry this angry, this disillusioned and this upset. And given what we’ve had to be angry about in recent times that’s saying something. “Together, our focus today with MPs is on Agricultural Property Relief and Business Property Relief – this shocking policy built on bad data and launched with no consultation with anybody that understands. Not even Defra. “Let us remember that they promised, nearly a year ago, they wouldn’t be changing Agricultural Property Relief. “It’s not only been bungled in delivery, it’s also nothing short of a stab in the back. “But we also know that it’s not just about APR and BPR, but that is the straw which broke the camel’s back. “After years of changing policy and 18 months of some of the worst weather on record, the Budget has been a kick in the teeth. “It is full of let-downs for our vital sector; accelerated BPS reductions, double cab pick-up taxes, new taxes on fertilisers.” FUW is also concerned over what last month’s budget could mean for agricultural funding in Wales. As part of her Budget, Chancellor, Rachel Reeves redefined agricultural funding for the devolved nations using the Barnett formula, rather than maintaining a separate, ring-faced allocation as has historically been the case. Previously, EU funding for UK agriculture was allocated across the UK nations under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) formula, based on rural and farming criteria such as the size, number and nature of farms. This resulted in 9.4% of the total UK agriculture budget coming to Wales when we were members of the EU. However, the FUW has warned the UK Treasury’s decision to ‘Barnettise’ the block grant for each devolved nation, a calculation based on population rather than farm and rural characteristics, could see Wales’ proportion of total UK agricultural funding fall drastically. Writing to the Secretary of State for Wales, FUW President, Ian Rickman, has sought urgent clarity from the UK Government on the funding reform - citing a worse case scenario ‘Barnettisation’ of agricultural funding that could see Wales’ proportion of total UK agricultural funding fall from 9.4% to around 5% - equal to a cut of around 40% in funding. A special event was held in Cardiff Bay on Wednesday, 20 November, to highlight to members of the Senedd the value of farming and the wider supply chain to the prosperity of Wales. The ‘Securing our food and rural economy’ event brought together farmers and stakeholders to showcase the synergy between Welsh farming business and firms across the supply chain. MSs in attendance at the ‘Securing our food and rural economy’ event, kindly sponsored by Llyr Gruffydd MS, were shown a video where contributors each explained the role their business plays in the Welsh supply chain success story. Those featured included Swans Farm Shop, Mold; Welsh potato, vegetable and bottled milk suppliers Puffin Produce, Pembrokeshire; the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society; British Wool; food service wholesalers Castell Howell Foods; processors Dunbia; South Wales Farm Vets; and agricultural merchants and suppliers Wynnstay. Speaking after the event, NFU Cymru President Aled Jones said: “I am so pleased that we were able to bring together stakeholders and partners from across Wales at today’s event to really encapsulate the knowledge, skills and expertise that exists in our supply chain network. I feel it’s crucial that we show our MSs the importance of these interlinked business and the social-economic boost provided by the products and services they supply. “As Welsh farmers we are very much the foundation of this supply chain; the raw ingredients we produce and the work we do on farm is complemented and added to by others throughout the supply chain. Farmers spend around £1.5billion annually on products such as feed, fertiliser, veterinary services, farm machinery and contract work. We are incredibly proud to be a part of a Welsh food and drink industry that is worth £9.3 billion to the Welsh economy and employs almost a quarter of a million people. “As it stands, rural affairs receives around 2% of the Welsh Government budget, but the ripple effect of that funding supports not only food security, but also delivers for the economy, jobs, the environment, communities and culture. That is why we believe it is imperative that Welsh Government continues to support our industry and its multiplier effect. We are grateful that the Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies MS, has committed to maintaining the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) for 2025, we are clear that the BPS budget must be maintained at current levels (£238million) for 2025 to provide much needed stability to farmers and rural Wales. “Farming businesses also need Welsh Government to provide clarity on a long-term financial framework that provides financial support and stability. Such a commitment will enable Welsh farmers to have the confidence to continue investing in their businesses for the benefit of food, nature, climate and communities. “NFU Cymru is grateful to all MSs who joined us at the Pierhead for our ‘Securing our food and rural economy’ reception. All those who attended can be in no doubt that it is only right that we herald the extraordinary success of the Welsh supply chain and underline the compelling case to continue support these businesses and their ambitions.” In response to last week’s protest, the UK Government said: “There has been extensive discussion about the changes to Agricultural Property Relief, announced in the Budget on 30 October. “The government inherited a £22 billion hole in the public finances, and we had to make difficult decisions at the Budget to fund the public services that farmers and families in rural communities rely on. “The changes we made are balanced and proportionate and around 500 claims a year are expected to be affected. These figures are based on the latest available information from HMRC on actual claims for Agricultural Property Relief.” This claim that only 500 farms a year will be affected has been hotly disputed by the industry. Immediately after the Budget, First Minister Eluned Morgan told plenary in Cardiff Bay it was a "very very small" number and we asked for clarification. The Welsh Government referred us to the Treasury which admitted it does not have regional figures. The Country Land and Business Association (CLA) said however that the policy could affect 70,000 farms across the United Kingdom. In a joint statement issued, Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves and Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Steve Reed said: “Farmers are the backbone of Britain, and we recognise the strength of feeling expressed by farming and rural communities in recent weeks. We are steadfast in our commitment to Britain’s farming industry because food security is national security. “It's why we are investing £5 billion into farming over the next two years – the largest amount ever directed towards sustainable food production, rural economic growth and nature’s recovery in our country’s history. “But with public services crumbling and a £22 billion fiscal hole that this Government inherited, we have taken difficult decisions. “The reforms to Agricultural Property Relief ensure that wealthier estates and the most valuable farms pay their fair share to invest in our schools and health services that farmers and families in rural communities rely on.” Looking ahead, in a column, the FUW says: “Whilst the changes to the inheritance tax continue to dominate the headlines at Westminster, much of the talk with Labour Senedd Members revolved around the revised Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS). “We expect a statement from the Cabinet Secretary on the proposals next week at the Winter Fair. “Whilst the announcement of the revised scheme outline will merely mark the end of the beginning - it will provide an important insight into the expectations and support that will be put forward for farmers in Wales to produce quality, sustainable food alongside other environmental and public goods. “The FUW looks forward to engaging with its members once these plans are announced.”Hydrogen Generation Market to grow by USD 49.7 Billion from 2024-2028, driven by fertilizer demand and AI-driven market transformation - Technavio